Tomás MacCurtain was born Ballyknockane, Mourne Abbey, County Cork, on 20 March 1884, the son of Patrick Curtin, a farmer, and Julia Sheehan. He attended The North Monastery school where Tomás fell in love with the Irish Language in addition to interests in Irish music, poetry, and history. MacCurtain became an active member of the Gaelic revival and joined the Blackpool, … [Read more...] about Tomás MacCurtain
“Uncommon Virtue is a Common Irish American Value”
It has been said of those that fought at the battle of Iwo Jima that “Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue.” It could also be said of many Irish American families that “Uncommon Virtue is a Common Value”. Both are illustrated in the story of William G. Walsh. William G. Walsh was born on April 7, 1922, in Maine to a young mother who gave the child to her grandmother to … [Read more...] about “Uncommon Virtue is a Common Irish American Value”
STATE AND DIVISION SCHOLARSHIPS
The process will be the same this year for the state and division scholarship. All applicants should visit the state website homepage at www.nyaoh.com and click on the link 2020 Scholarship opportunities. The direct link is http://www.nyaoh.com/nys-aoh-board-scholarship-competition/. Here the applicant will find directions, applications, and study materials. State Chairman … [Read more...] about STATE AND DIVISION SCHOLARSHIPS
The Sad History of “Funny” Irish Stereotypes
With the advent of every spring and the approach of St. Patrick’s Day merchandise dealing in Irish Stereotypes and tropes bloom before the first crocus. Despite the fact that in our initiation oath, we pledge to “… not countenance by my presence or support any performance that may reasonably be interpreted as caricaturing or debasing the Irish people,” too many of us pass off … [Read more...] about The Sad History of “Funny” Irish Stereotypes
AOH Division 3 January 2019 President’s Message
We hope you and your families enjoyed a very merry Christmas and happy New Year. New decade, new president. For the many members I know or have met, I appreciate the faith you’ve placed in me in taking on this role. I’ve also appreciated the time Dermot has spent with me, getting me up to speed. In the short amount of time I’ve been at it, it makes me truly appreciate what … [Read more...] about AOH Division 3 January 2019 President’s Message